Skip to main content

Stovetop Quinoa

This grain-like seed is quick to cook and has an earthy flavor that goes well in salads, soups and stews.
Bowls of cooked quinoa.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Makes: 3 cups
Nutrition Facts: View label

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa (if not pre-rinsed, rinse well using a fine-mesh strainer)
2 cups water
¼ teaspoon salt (optional)

Directions

  1. Wash hands with soap and water.
  2. In a saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add quinoa and salt, if desired, and return the mixture to a boil.
  3. Reduce heat to low, cover pan and simmer for 12 minutes.
  4. Turn off heat and let stand until water is absorbed and quinoa has the texture you like, about 5 to 10 minutes.
  5. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • For more flavor, cook with broth or milk instead of water.
  • For a roasted flavor, toast the grains in the saucepan. Stir the grains around at medium heat for a few minutes before adding liquid.
  • Topping ideas: fresh, frozen or dried fruit; milk or yogurt; chopped nuts or seeds; cinnamon or other spices. Savory toppings include vegetables and cheese.
  • Add to soups, grain bowls or grain salads.
  • No strainer? Use a clean coffee filter.

Comments

This is a no-fail way to cook quinoa. Turning off the heat and letting it sit to soak up remaining water keeps it from being soggy and overcooked.

You might also like...

Recipes A to Z (without photos)

Zucchini Tomato Bake
Baking dish with layers of zucchini rounds coated with tomatoes and cheese.

Zucchini Tomato Bake

Warm and flavorful vegetable bake topped with creamy cheese.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
45 minutes
Makes:
7 cups
Vegetarian Ceviche
Bowl of colorful diced vegetables with dressing.

Vegetarian Ceviche

This unique take on ceviche is full of fresh veggies.
Prepare:
30 minutes
Makes:
6 cups
Watermelon Salsa
Bowl of watermelon cubes with cilantro dressing.

Watermelon Salsa

Enjoy this unique salsa as a sweet, tangy and fresh snack or as a topping for tacos or fish.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Makes:
2 cups
Ranch Dip
Bowl of creamy dip garnished with parsley and served with raw carrots, cherry tomatoes and broccoli.

Ranch Dip

Try this tangy and flavorful ranch dip that's ready in 5 minutes.
Prepare:
5 minutes
Makes:
2 cups
Waldorf Salad
Bowl of creamy apple, celery and walnut mix.

Waldorf Salad

Crunchy apples topped with walnuts, raisins and a creamy dressing.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
4 cups
Pear and Cranberry Crisp
Baking dish of baked pear and cranberries with an oat topping.

Pear and Cranberry Crisp

Whole grain oats, warm brown sugar and sweet fruit make this a flavorful treat for breakfast or dessert.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
20 minutes
Makes:
4 Cups